Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola, Tropea, Italy

Surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola is in the town of Tropea in the Province of Vibo Valentia. While its history is uncertain, the area is known to have come under the auspices of Basilian monks of the Eastern rite some time during the early Middle Ages. In the 11th century, the island’s religious reigns were passed to the Benedictines under guidance of the Normans. Tropea and the surrounding communities were gradually Latinized, and interestingly, the Abbey of Montecassino has held dominion over the island sanctuary for over 1,000 years.

Little of the original structure remains due to the devastating earthquakes of 1783 and 1905. Today, Santa Maria dell’Isola has become one of Calabria’s most internationally recognized symbols.

References:

calabriatheotheritaly.com

Religious sites in Italy

User Reviews

Uriel Wilms (9 months ago)
This place was amazing ? they have a beautiful garden in the back of the place. It is somewhat of a way up, but so worth it.

PDSOTMF (12 months ago)
Worth the trip to go up there. The church is beautiful, and there is singing. If you plan to enter the garden, better buy the tickets on the way up, so you don't have to go up and down several times. There is a shop coming up. Then ticket sales and up close to the church, there is a shop as well. The dress code for Italian churches does not apply here. Just saying ?

Gert Zenelaj (13 months ago)
Santuario Santa Maria dell'Isola di Tropea offers an absolutely breathtaking experience that's second to none. The panoramic view of the city is nothing short of spectacular, providing an enchanting vantage point to take in Tropea's charm. What truly sets this place apart is the awe-inspiring vista of Rotonda Beach. The azure waters glisten below, and the golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Whether you're a sunseeker, a photographer, or simply a lover of natural beauty, this view will leave you in sheer awe. And if you have the privilege of visiting during sunset, prepare to be enchanted. The transition from day to night paints the sky with a mesmerizing palette of colors, casting a warm, romantic glow over the entire scene. It's a moment of pure magic that will etch itself into your memory forever. Santuario Santa Maria dell'Isola di Tropea is not just a place; it's an experience that invites you to savor the beauty of nature and the history of this iconic site. It's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fantastic view that will leave them spellbound.lace is magic

Pavel Vylimec (PajaS) (13 months ago)
Before climbing the stairs, it was written that it opens at 15:00.Even though we arrived at 15:30, it was still closed, and no one let us in. After reading some reviews, we decided that we could spend the money better elsewhere. Two stars at least for the fact that the place looks nice from the bottom and from the city.

Mariusz (2 years ago)
Definitely a must see place in Tropea. If you are a woman and want to go to the very top, the guard will not let you in a swimsuit or a dress with bare shoulders ... Entrance to the garden is paid and probably worth it because the views are amazing. The church itself is charming and intimate.

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